Research Assistant Professor

Posting Summary Logo:

Posting Number:
RTF00068PO26

USC Market Title:
Research Assistant Professor

Link to USC Market Title:

Business Title:
Research Assistant Professor

Campus:
Columbia

Work County:
Richland

College/Division:
College of Engineering and Computing

Department:
CEC Chemical Engineering

Location of Vacancy:

Part/Full Time:
Full Time

Hours per Week:
40

Type of Faculty Position:
Faculty Research Grant (FRGP)

Basis :
12 months

Job Search Category:
Faculty

About USC About University of South Carolina:
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelors degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below

The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.

South Carolina Retirement:
Yes

State Insurance Programs:
Yes

Annual Leave:
Yes

Sick Leave:
Yes

Position Description Advertised Job Summary:
Conduct research in computational catalysis, with an emphasis on pioneering the integration of modern machine learning tools into computational catalysis workflows. Write research proposals for funding and manuscripts for publication. Assist the PI with the supervision of students and collaborate with experimental and theoretical researchers to advance interdisciplinary research objectives.

Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience:

• Requires a Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in chemical engineering or a related field with experience in computational catalysis.

Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials:

Preferred Qualifications:

• Research experience in computational catalysis with leadership skills and experience.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Computational catalysis, machine learning

Job Duties Job Duty:
Conduct computational research on catalysis at solidliquid interfaces using advanced simulation techniques, including density functional theory ( DFT ), molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo methods, and freeenergy perturbation calculations. Develop and implement novel computational methodologies and scalable workflows that integrate physicsbased modeling with datadriven approaches, while efficiently utilizing national and local highperformance computing ( HPC ) resources.

Essential Function:
Yes

Percentage of Time:
60

Job Duty:
Develop competitive research proposals for federal agencies, foundations, and other funding sources by identifying innovative research directions and clearly articulating their scientific significance and broader impacts. Prepare detailed project plans, including methodology, timelines, and budget justifications, aligned with sponsor requirements. Lead the preparation and submission of manuscripts to high-impact peer-reviewed journals, ensuring clear presentation of results and adherence to publication standards. Coordinate contributions from collaborators and trainees, and respond to reviewer comments to achieve successful publication. Maintain a consistent record of scholarly output and external funding to support a sustained research program

Essential Function:
Yes

Percentage of Time:
25

Job Duty:
Provide day-to-day mentorship and technical guidance to graduate and undergraduate students, including training in computational methods and best practices in research. Contribute to the development of student research projects, monitor progress, and support professional development, including preparation of presentations and publications. Facilitate effective communication and coordination among collaborators across disciplines to ensure alignment of computational and experimental efforts. Participate in group meetings, contribute to strategic planning of research directions, and help maintain a collaborative and inclusive research environment.

Essential Function:
Yes

Percentage of Time:
15

Position Attributes Hazardous weather category:
Non-Essential

Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.:
No

Posting Detail Information Desired Start Date:

Position End Date :

Job Open Date:
04/07/2026

Job Close Date:

Open Until Filled:
Yes

Special Instructions to Applicant:
Applicants must upload a copy of their C.V/resume. Applicants must also provide 3 letters of recommendation.

Positions are advertised for a minimum of forty-five (45) days on our job website. After forty-five (45) days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This position is open until filled. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.

Quicklink for Posting:

EEO Statement:
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV /AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.